The Eye Care Liaison Officer (ECLO) service provides practical and emotional support to patients diagnosed with an eye condition. ECLOs work closely with the medical and nursing teams in our eye clinics, as well as with local sensory services and charities. Their role is to ensure that patients receive the information, guidance and reassurance they need to understand their diagnosis and maintain their independence.

What an ECLO does:

• Provides emotional support to patients and families adjusting to sight loss.
• Explains diagnoses and next steps in clear, accessible language.
• Signposts to local authority sensory teams, rehabilitation officers and organisations such as the RNIB for further support.
• Offers time and space after consultation to talk through the impact of a diagnosis and any concerns.

Why the ECLO service is important

Being diagnosed with an eye condition can be an emotional and confusing experience. During busy clinic appointments, it can be difficult to absorb all the information provided by clinical staff. The ECLO service bridges that gap by providing one-to-one support, helping patients to understand their condition, access services, and retain independence and confidence.

Professional standards

ECLOs are endorsed by:

• The UK Ophthalmology Alliance (UKOA)
• The Royal College of Ophthalmologists (RCOphth)
• NICE
• The Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC)

Qualified ECLOs complete the Eye Clinic Support Studies Course at City, University of London, a nationally recognised qualification which adheres to the RNIB Quality Framework for ECLO Services.

Contact us

If you would like to speak to an Eye Care Liaison Officer or make a referral, please contact bhrut.eclo@nhs.net.